A train crashed into a broken-down car on a level crossing triggering delays and a large emergency response.

The vehicle is said to have come to a stop on the track at the Grove Ferry crossing, near Hersden, before it was hit this afternoon.

Images show emergency crews working to survey the area, with a smashed-up Nissan Qashqai on the tracks, next to a Southeastern carriage.

The driver of the car was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Southeastern said trains were unable to run between Canterbury West and Ramsgate.

It meant services were delayed, cancelled or diverted via Dover Priory while Grove Ferry Hill was also understood to be closed.

The firm posted about the incident shortly after 2pm on X.

At 4pm, Network Rail Kent and Sussex said: “We're aware of a slow speed collision between a train and a car at Grove Ferry level crossing.

“Thankfully there are no reported injuries and our front line responders are working with Kent Police and British Transport Police to remove the car from the crossing.”

At 4.45pm, it was confirmed the car had been safely removed from the level crossing.

The line has since reopened.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “Earlier this afternoon, shortly before 2pm, a train collided at slow speed with a car at Grove Ferry level crossing.

“The line was blocked between Canterbury West and Ramsgate, and the power to the electrified third rail was switched off while our front-line responders supported Kent Police and the British Transport Police in quickly and safely removing the car from the crossing and assessing the train and the level crossing for any damage.

“The car was successfully removed and the line reopened at 5.20pm, with train services having resumed and moving through the affected area at a slow speed, so there will still be some delays.

“We’ll be working over the weekend to fix the crossing and get the road reopened.

“We’re sorry to any passengers disrupted by this incident and thank them for their patience and understanding.”

Police and paramedics attended the incident, with multiple emergency vehicles spotted at the scene.

An ambulance service spokesperson said: “Crews assessed and treated one person at the scene before taking them to the QEQM hospital for further medical treatment.”